Cheap flights to Kos

With a rich history and an even richer coastline, action-packed resorts, and mountain scenery, Kos has been pulling in the tourists for decades. Long before it was its beaches attracting the crowds, Kos was pulling in a very different type of tourist. Travellers came to the island looking to be cured at the healing sanctuary known as the Asclepion, the remains of which can still be seen today, almost two and a half thousand years later. And did you know that Hippocrates, the father of medicine, also came from Kos? Well you do now. Don’t miss the ruins of the world’s first medical school, which he built here.

Check out the island’s main town too, called, yes you guessed it, Kos Town. If you like your ports picturesque then you’ll love this one, sitting impressively under the watchful eye of a medieval castle, complete with narrow, cobbled streets and pretty little squares. The town also doubles up as a lively resort with everything a tourist could wish for, from bustling nightclubs to typical Greek tavernas and beaches with every type of amenity imaginable.

Shopping

Cooler, clearer autumn days are perfect for the ascent of 846m Khristós peak. Views of Kos from the summit are unrivalled. Allow three hours for a leisurely return from Ziá village.

Sightseeing

You can't miss Yénnisis Theotókou Church at the summit of Lagoúdi village. The inside sports brilliant 1980s frescoes by reclusive painter Nikos Vlahoyiannis. The friendly Father Kyriakos will let you in.

Catch a film at the Orfevs outdoor cinema, one of the loveliest in the islands, which is open until late September, unless autumn arrives early. Located on Fenarétis, at the corner of Hálkonos, look out for posters around town with details of what's on.

Key Areas

The engagingly round, 1920s-built Amnos tou Theou (Agnus Dei) parish church, behind the Roman theatre, is still active. The adjacent graveyard (Italian colonists to 1943, island Catholics thereafter) has a stark memorial to 102 Italian officers shot by the Wehrmacht in October 1943.

Bros Therma hot springs lie 9km south-west of Kos Town. Once winter storms finish, locals rebuild the shoreline boulder pool, which mixes scalding spring water with the sea to an agreeable temperature. Popular by night, especially around the full moon. Free admission.

Day Trips

Head for the Artemis Hamam in Tingáki, with sauna, scrub and massage menus starting from €30. Transfer shuttle available. artemishamam.com